Imaging Synaptic Density in Depression

Authors

Sophie E Holmes
Chadi Abdallah
Irina Esterlis

Language

English

Publication Date

1-1-2023

Journal

Neuropsychopharmacology

DOI

10.1038/s41386-022-01368-4

PMID

35768568

PMCID

PMC9700860

PubMedCentral® Posted Date

6-29-2022

PubMedCentral® Full Text Version

Post-print

Abstract

Major depressive disorder is a prevalent and heterogeneous disorder with treatment resistance in at least 50% of individuals. Most of the initial studies focused on the monoamine system; however, recently other mechanisms have come under investigation. Specific to the current issue, studies show synaptic involvement in depression. Other articles in this issue report on reductions in synaptic density, dendritic spines, boutons and glia associated with stress and depression. Importantly, it appears that some drugs (e.g., ketamine) may lead to rapid synaptic restoration or synaptogenesis. Direct evidence for this comes from preclinical work. However, neuroimaging studies, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET), have become useful in assessing these changes in vivo. Here, we describe the use of neuroimaging techniques in the evaluation of synaptic alterations associated with depression in humans, as well as measurement of synaptic restoration after administration of ketamine. Although more research is desired, use of these techniques widen our understanding of depression and move us further along the path to targeted and effective treatment for depression.

Keywords

Humans, Depressive Disorder, Major, Ketamine, Depression, Neuroimaging, Positron-Emission Tomography, Neuroscience, Medical research

Published Open-Access

yes

Recommended Citation

Sophie E Holmes, Chadi Abdallah, and Irina Esterlis, "Imaging Synaptic Density in Depression" (2023). Faculty, Staff and Students Publications. 6014.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/baylor_docs/6014